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All good things must come to an end. After 187 episodes spanning more than three years, we're signing off with our final Question of Faith podcast. But don't worry—this isn't a somber farewell, but rather a reflection on life's transitions and what truly matters.

We open with a profound realization that's hit each of us at different points in ministry: while we take our work seriously, the Church continues regardless of our individual contributions. As Fr. Eric puts it, "If I don't do my job, there'll still be people in the Seminary, because it's God who calls, not me." This humbling truth has taught us to hold our roles with a "loose grip," recognizing that our legacy isn't found in buildings bearing our names or possessions that burden others after we're gone.

The timing of our finale coincides with organizational changes within the Diocese of Cleveland, where divisions are being combined and new ministries are emerging. While we can't share all the details just yet, we're excited about what's next. And how fitting that we record just after Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit empowered the apostles to spread the Gospel in new languages—a beautiful redemption of the Tower of Babel story that once divided humanity.

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Between theological reflections, we answer one final question about fasting before Communion (it's one hour before receiving, not before Mass begins), share softball league updates, and reminisce about memorable moments from our podcast journey. Throughout it all, our conversation maintains that blend of depth and lighthearted banter that's defined Question of Faith from day one.

Though this chapter closes, our ministries continue. We're not disappearing—you'll still find us serving throughout the Diocese of Cleveland, just in evolving roles. As we say in our final moments: "It's not goodbye, it's see you later." Thank you for being part of our journey. Special thanks to Dan Fuerst our sponsor at Briefcase Marketing. May the questions of faith continue to guide your path forward.

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Could Orthodox and Catholic Christians finally reunite after centuries of separation? As both traditions celebrated Easter on the same day this year, we explore the fascinating possibility of reconciliation between these ancient branches of Christianity.

The calendrical quirk that aligned Orthodox and Catholic Easter dates this year isn't just a mathematical curiosity – it's a powerful symbol of potential unity. While Orthodox Christians typically use the Julian calendar (placing their Easter about 13 days different from the Gregorian calendar used by Catholics), this year's synchronization recalls the shared foundation established at the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. More on this at this link.

Pope Leo, whose papal crest bears the motto "In Christ we become one," is continuing dialogue started by Pope Francis regarding a permanent alignment of Easter celebrations. With the 1700th anniversary of Nicaea approaching and Pope Leo planning his first papal trip to Turkey for the commemoration, the momentum for meaningful unity seems stronger than ever. This historic moment coincides with what we're calling a "springtime in Christianity" – a period of renewal marked by increasing interest in faith traditions among younger generations seeking meaning beyond what secular culture offers.

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The moving story of the Four Chaplains – Catholic, Jewish, Reformed, and Methodist ministers who gave away their life jackets and died together praying for others as their ship sank during WWII – provides a powerful model for interfaith cooperation. Their example reminds us that unity doesn't require uniformity, but rather mutual respect and shared purpose.

Whether through local ecumenical efforts like joint Good Friday services or international dialogues between church leaders, these steps toward reunification represent healing for one of Christianity's most significant historical divisions. Could this be the moment when the Orthodox and Catholic traditions finally find their way back to communion? Join us as we explore this question and its profound implications for the future of faith.

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Pope Leo XIV emerges as a potential unifier for a polarized Church, with Catholics across the spectrum expressing excitement about his election. His deliberate use of different papal symbols and outreach to diverse groups demonstrates his commitment to continuity with tradition while moving the Church forward.

• Both traditional and progressive Catholics showing enthusiasm for Pope Leo
• The Pope's background as both a mathematician and canon lawyer suggests precision and clarity
• His use of symbols and vestments from different papal predecessors indicates continuity
• Early meetings with the Orthodox Church signal commitment to ecumenical dialogue
• His academic connections to Villanova, the Angelicum, and Catholic Theological Union
• The newly ordained priests in Cleveland all grew up in local parishes
• Summer ministry events including Wednesday evening gatherings at St. John Cathedral
• Young adult softball league beginning June 1st at St. John Bosco Parish
• Procession to the diocesan shrine planned for July 19th

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Join us at St. John Cathedral every Wednesday night starting May 28th. We'll gather at 5:30 PM for Vespers, followed by food, drinks and live music in the courtyard from 6:15 to 7:50 PM, ending with Night Prayer.

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Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, becomes the first American pope in Church history, bringing a unique blend of Augustinian spirituality, canon law expertise, and pastoral experience from his years serving the poor in Peru.

• White smoke appeared lunchtime (EST) on Thursday, signaling a relatively quick conclave.
• Pope Leo chose his name after Leo XIII, known for social justice teaching.
• His first words as pope were "Peace be with you," signaling a focus on unity.
• Both traditionalists and progressives have responded positively to his election.
• As an Augustinian, he comes from a religious order and will bring his order's perspective to the papacy.
• His American accent and Midwestern English create a new sound for papal addresses.
• He combines elements of his predecessors: Francis's concern for the poor with Benedict's academic approach.
• His living brothers in Chicago and Florida offer a humanizing glimpse into his family life.
• Early indications suggest he'll be a unifying figure while continuing Francis's mission in a "more buttoned-up" style.
• He's already begun peace initiatives, meeting with Ukraine's president shortly after his election.

Let us pray for Pope Leo XIV as he begins his pontificate, that the Lord will guide him in leading the Church through whatever hardships may come.

Church Search goes to St. Noel.

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Fr Damian invites you:
Jubilee Year pilgrimages will happen across the Diocese of Cleveland:

June 12th at St. John of the Cross to Lourdes Shrine.
July 19th at St. John Bosco to Shrine of the Queen of the Holy Rosary at Incarnate Word Academy (especially for young adults),
July 26th at St. Anne Shrine (focused on grandparents and families).

Readings for the 5th Sunday of Easter.

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The papal conclave beginning May 7th faces various threats including political influences and spiritual challenges, requiring worldwide prayer for the 124 cardinal electors during this sacred process.

• Catholics can "adopt" a cardinal to pray for through adoptacardinal.org
• Vatican preparations include three white cassocks in different sizes for the new Pope.
• The Cardinals and any staff took an oath of secrecy for the conclave proceedings.
• A previous participant described feeling the "palpable presence of the Holy Spirit" during the conclave.
• Speculation centers on Asian candidates like Cardinal Tagle from the Philippines.
• The next pope may choose the name Paul VII or John XXIV rather than Francis II.
• The conclave may last 2-3 days, likely concluding by Friday or Saturday. Although Deacon Mike firmly believes it will be faster.

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Fr Damian invites you:
Jubilee Year pilgrimages will happen across the Diocese of Cleveland:

June 12th at St. John of the Cross to Lourdes Shrine.
July 19th at St. John Bosco to Shrine of the Queen of the Holy Rosary at Incarnate Word Academy (especially for young adults),
July 26th at St. Anne Shrine (focused on grandparents and families).

Readings for the 4th Sunday of Easter

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Cleveland Vocations Director Father Eric Garris shares his unexpected experience of being in on vacation in Rome and ending up at Pope Francis' funeral and his last public appearence on Easter Sunday. What began as a trip to celebrate Easter with Cleveland priests studying abroad transformed into a historic moment as Father Garris found himself witnessing history firsthand and becoming a media expert of sorts for various American media outlets. Fr Garris details:

• Originally traveling to Rome for Holy Week and Carlo Acutis' canonization.
• Distributed communion at St. Peter's during Holy Week Services.
• He received news of Pope Francis' death while praying at John Paul II's tomb.
• Joined other priests in the prayers for the dead in St. Peter's Square.
• Attended the papal funeral alongside other Cleveland and Ohio priests.
• Reflected on Pope Francis' commitment to being with his people until the end.
• Discussed the universality of the Church gathering at such historic moments.
• Noted how many young people came for canonization of Carlo Acutis but ended up like him attending a Papal funeral.
• Emphasized trust in the Church's continuity as the conclave approaches.

We also briefly touch on the upcoming papal conclave and set some parameters that the Cardinals might use to determine the next Pope. The Pillar has thoughts, as does the National Catholic Reporter to give two perspectives from both extremes.

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Church Search is St Peter's Basilica in Rome.

The week's readings on St. Peter and more.

We'll be covering the upcoming conclave beginning May 7th in future episodes. If you have questions of faith, email mhayes@dioceseofcleveland.org.

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Pope Francis died on Easter Monday after celebrating Easter one last time on this side of the veil before going home to the Father. We reflect on his legacy and discuss what happens next for the Catholic Church during this time of transition. Both hosts received the news early in the morning and took time to pray and process. (UPDATE: Funeral is now Saturday 4/26

Check out Sarah Hart's new song celebrating Pope Francis' life.

Some Highlights from our reflective show on Pope Francis and his legacy:

• We both admired Pope Francis for his pastoral nature and commitment to those on the peripheries.
• When a pope dies: We discuss the various rituals: his body is prepared for a wake, a funeral Mass & burial takes place quickly, and then the conclave begins after 15-20 days.
• Pope Francis appointed many cardinals from countries never before represented in the College of Cardinals which will make for an interesting conclave.
• Deacon Mike and Fr. Damian discuss some potential papal candidates include Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa from Jerusalem and Cardinal Tagle from the Philippines
• The Easter season reminds us that "death is not the end" as we celebrate resurrection and new life.
• This Sunday is Divine Mercy Sunday featuring the gospel story of "Doubting Thomas"

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This Easter season, we're invited to show the Lord our wounds so he can heal them, following Pope Francis's example of embracing the wounded and marginalized.

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Holy Week stands as more than a commemoration—it's an invitation to personal transformation through entering deeply into Christ's Paschal mystery, experiencing both suffering and resurrection in our own lives.

• Entering fully into the liturgies of the Triduum rather than taking a minimalist approach
• The importance of seeing Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Vigil as one continuous liturgy
• Traditional practices like our Holy Night Hike pilgrimage on Holy Thursday, and food blessings that enhance Holy Week.
• Bishop Malesic's pastoral suggestion to personalize the Stations of the Cross by connecting them to our own experiences
• Finding healing in those places of suffering where Christ wants to bring resurrection
• Deacon Mike's powerful story of releasing betrayal before ordination
• The Easter Gospel Readings: how some disciples arrive at faith differently, like Peter and John at the tomb

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Church Search:
Deacon Mike will be at St. Christopher Parish in Rocky RIver for all of Holy Week. He's preaching at the 10AM Mass on Easter Sunday.

Fr. Damian will be at:

Holy Thursday: St. Francis DeSales in Parma

Good Friday: Preaching at the Good Friday Liturgy at the Cathedral.

Holy Saturday: Our Lady of Victory in Tallmadge

Easter Sunday: St. James in Lakewood at 10:30AM

We will both be walking on Holy Thursday for Holy Night Hike in Tremont/Ohio City

Join us next time as we continue exploring questions of faith following the Easter celebration. Follow us online for more content and upcoming episodes.